Preaching the Good News by word and example is a fundamental task for all Christians. This blog intends to help all reflect on and enhance this important ministry.

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Thursday, January 21, 2016

Protecting Children

"The old proverb says, ‘From the wicked comes forth wickedness.’ So I will take no action against you." 1 Sam 24:14

Everyone agrees that we have to protect children. The sexual abuse crisis in our country and church made that very clear, and this is where we ought to begin any conversation about abortion.

When we are able to begin a conversation with a common goal, we almost always make progress. The problem of when life begins, to which everything gets reduced, should not be our starting point in any discussion about abortion.

It is clear that the Catholic church believes unequivocally that human life begins at conception, but this conviction should not stop us from finding common ground with our neighbors about the protection of children. When we are able to build relationships with those with whom we disagree, our conversations are always more straightforward and honest. More important, the likelihood that we actually listen to the position of others and they ours increases exponentially. When we listen, common solutions emerge much more organically.

Hebrews reminds us not to become sluggish in proclaiming our faith, and when we announce good news with power, passion and joy it is easier for others to hear us and even consider our ethical positions. Rather than enter a shouting match with those with whom we disagree, let our joy be the foundation of every interchange, no matter how difficult.

About Me

Br. Jack Rathschmidt, a Capuchin Franciscan priest, has been involved in preaching, religious education, and retreat work for more than 40 years. He has written and helped produce more than 50 videos on Sacraments, the Bible, Faith Formation and spirituality, and with Gaynell Cronin he has published four books: Rituals for Home and Parish, (Paulist, 1996), The Blessing Candles, (St. Anthony Messenger Press, 2000), Nurturing Today’s Chrildren, (Liguori, 2002), and Doorways to Holiness, (Paulist, 2006)